English Expression · Intermediate
feel out
To attempt to ascertain a person's point of view, or the nature of a situation, by cautious and subtle means
Pronunciation: say feel out
Meaning
To attempt to ascertain a person's point of view, or the nature of a situation, by cautious and subtle means.
Example
I think we should feel out your mom's thoughts about this before we decide anything.
I think we should feel out your mom's thoughts about this before we decide anything.
Practice tips
- Practice feel out out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.